Smith was recognized for seeing and leading opportunities for CNS to engage its workforce and drive a culture of excellence. “His leadership in implementing a strategic plan and ensuring all levels of the organization understood and accepted that plan were key to helping Y-12 maintain its Star status,” said a DOE release.

CNS also received the VPP Star of Excellence recognizing exemplary achievement of limiting injury/illness incidence rates and lost workday injury/illness rates to at least 75 percent below the Bureau of Labor Statistics national average for the applicable Standard Industrial Classification North American Industry Classification System code; completion of annual DOE-VPP goals; and demonstration of strong involvement in the VPPPA, VPP mentoring, and outreach. The site has held the VPP Star status since 2012.

Smith was on hand to receive the award and also help conduct a Relational-Based Leadership module for the pre-conference workshop.

“This award could not be possible without everyone at Y-12 having the same vision of working in an environment where the mindset is zero tolerance for injuries,” said Smith. “VPP is an outstanding program. It is gratifying that our workforce is recognized for demonstrating their commitment to safety and philosophy of watching out for each other.”